The Greatness of Christ
Audio Recording
Sermon Outline
Speaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Maturing in Christ
Colossians 1:15-20 (ESV)
15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by[a] him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
Sermon Outline
We are invited into the reforming and reordering of all things in Christ, who is far greater than we imagine.
1. Christ is first.
vv17-18 “he is before all things… he is the beginning”
v15 “he is the image of the invisible God”, v19 “for in Him all the fulness of God was pleased to dwell”
2. Christ holds all things together.
v17 “in him all things hold together”
v20 “through him to reconcile all things, whether on earth or in heaven”
3. Christ is above all.
v15 “the firstborn of creation”, v18 “the firstborn of the dead”
v18 “he is the head of the body… that in everything he might be preeminent”
Prayer of Confession
Almighty God, our Creator and Redeemer, you who are above all: we admit our sin and shortcomings. With pride we have sought to take the preeminent place. With greed we have been lured into believing there are things greater than you. With corruption we have failed to act honorably toward you or others. With shame we admit that we are broken people and cannot fix ourselves. We thank you that Christ, who gives life to all, has given us new life. We ask for the forgiveness of our sins. Renew us by the Spirit that binds us to Christ, in whom all things are held together. The kingdom, the power and the glory are yours, forever. Amen.
Questions for Reflection
What do you see as “preeminent” in our world? What do people put first, value most, get most excited about, etc.?
Why is it hard to see that Jesus is preeminent?
What is meant by the phrase “if you want to know what God is like, look at Jesus”? What are you supposed to do?
How is looking to Jesus like keeping your “eye on the ball”? How can you keep your eyes on Jesus throughout a typical day? In extraordinary circumstances?
How does Christianity provide meaning in life? Does life make sense? Are you experiencing a sense of purpose?
In what areas of your life would you benefit from reordering things with Jesus as your guide and teacher? Where do you feel like you most need to give attention?
Why is it good news that Jesus is above all? Are you confident Jesus is worthy of that position? What concerns do you have?
What are some implications of Jesus being over all, and all things being accountable to him?
Do you ever have a sense of the transcendence and glory of Christ? What can you be attuned to in order to help you recognize the greatness of Christ? What can you expect to happen within you if you can more consistently connect with the exalted Christ?